How Dialysis Patients Can Plan for Holiday Travel

The holiday season is a time for celebration, connection, and creating memories with the people we love. But for those living with kidney disease and undergoing dialysis treatment, holiday travel can feel daunting. The good news? Yes, dialysis patients can travel—and with the right preparation, they can enjoy a safe, smooth, and joyful holiday season.

At Shifa Dialysis in Chicago, IL, we understand the unique challenges that come with traveling while on dialysis. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way—helping you plan ahead so you can spend time with family and friends without compromising your health.

Traveling on Dialysis Is Possible

According to the National Kidney Foundation, more than 500,000 people in the U.S. are on dialysis, and a growing number are traveling each year. Whether you’re visiting relatives for Thanksgiving, heading to a warmer climate over winter break, or planning a holiday road trip, you can make it happen—with the right guidance.

The key to traveling on dialysis is early planning and coordination. Here’s how to prepare.

Tips for Traveling on Hemodialysis

Hemodialysis patients typically need treatment three times a week, which means coordinating your schedule in advance is essential. Here’s how to make it work:

1. Start Planning at Least 4–6 Weeks Ahead

Contact your care team at Shifa Dialysis as early as possible. We can help you arrange treatments at a visiting dialysis center near your destination. Many clinics nationwide accept traveling patients, but slots can fill up fast around the holidays.

2. Get a Treatment Summary

We’ll prepare a medical summary, including your dialysis prescription, recent lab results, allergies, and medications to send to the center where you’ll receive treatment. You’ll also want a copy with you while traveling.

3. Confirm Insurance Coverage

Some dialysis centers may be out-of-network, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider about coverage and possible out-of-pocket costs before booking travel.

4. Pack Smart

Bring all necessary medications, emergency contact information, a list of your doctors, and any comfort items you normally take to dialysis (blanket, headphones, etc.).

Tips for Traveling on Peritoneal Dialysis (PD)

For patients on peritoneal dialysis, travel can be more flexible since you can perform treatments on your own. However, it still requires planning.

1. Coordinate Supply Delivery

PD supply companies can ship dialysis supplies directly to your travel location, whether it’s a hotel, a family member’s home, or even a cruise ship. Let your PD nurse know where you’re going, and they can help coordinate delivery.

2. Bring Backup Supplies

Always carry a few days’ worth of supplies in your luggage in case of delays or shipping issues. Keep critical supplies with you—never in checked baggage.

3. Know Your Support Options

Locate the nearest hospital or dialysis center at your destination in case of an emergency or equipment issue.

Shifa Dialysis Is Here to Help

At Shifa Dialysis, we’re proud to serve the diverse communities of Chicago, IL, with a team that understands not only the medical side of dialysis but also the emotional and logistical challenges. When it comes to holiday travel, our staff can:

• Help you find and schedule treatment at a trusted dialysis center near your destination
• Provide all required medical documentation and prescriptions
• Work with your insurance provider to clarify coverage
• Offer guidance on packing, safety, and travel timing

We believe dialysis shouldn’t stop you from living a full and meaningful life. With the right support, travel during the holidays is not only possible—it can be a positive and uplifting experience.

Don’t Wait—Start Planning Your Holiday Travel Now

If you’re a dialysis patient planning to travel this holiday season, reach out to our team at Shifa Dialysis in Chicago. We’ll help you plan every step of your trip with confidence and care—so you can focus on the joy of the season, not the stress of treatment logistics.

Contact us today to learn more about travel support services and how we can help you stay on track with your health while enjoying the holidays with the people who matter most.